Council members will consider approval of minutes from two prior meetings — the regular meeting held Dec. 9, 2025, as well as an emergency called meeting on Dec. 12, 2025.
The primary item of new business on the agenda is the 2024 Final Budget Amendment. Final budget amendments are typically used to make year-end financial adjustments to reflect actual revenues and expenditures before the close of the fiscal year.
No items are listed under old business, and there are no recommendations scheduled from officers, departments, or the town attorney.
The meeting will include a period for public comments before adjournment.
Monday’s meeting will mark the final official council session for the Town of Alto in 2025.
Habersham News will provide updates following the meeting.
From the very beginning, Habersham News was built with one goal in mind: to serve our community with local stories, local voices, and local pride. Today, we’re proud to share a milestone that belongs to you just as much as it does to us.
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(ATLANTA, GA) – Georgia State Patrol Troopers and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Officers are urging motorists to prioritize safe driving during the upcoming Christmas and New Year’s holiday travel periods. High-visibility patrols will be conducted statewide on interstates and state routes to help reduce crashes and fatalities.
The Christmas travel period begins Wednesday, December 24, at 6:00 p.m. and ends Sunday, December 28, at 11:59 p.m. The New Year’s holiday travel period runs from Wednesday, December 31, at 6:00 p.m. through Sunday, January 4, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Each travel period lasts 102 hours.
Image by INRIX
“State Troopers and Officers remain committed to enforcing Georgia’s traffic laws and addressing unsafe driving behaviors that can lead to serious injuries or fatal crashes,” said Colonel William W. Hitchens, III, Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety. “We urge all motorists to make safety their top priority when traveling on Georgia’s roadways.”
During the 2024 Christmas holiday travel period, five fatalities were reported statewide. The Georgia State Patrol investigated 186 crashes, resulting in nearly 72 injuries and three fatalities. During the 2024–25 New Year’s holiday travel period, five fatalities occurred statewide, with the Georgia State Patrol investigating 271 crashes, leading to approximately 118 injuries and four of the five fatalities.
Motorists are reminded to plan ahead if holiday celebrations include alcohol by arranging a sober ride with a designated driver, taxi, rideshare service, or trusted friend or family member. “Driving sober, staying alert, and obeying traffic laws are essential,” said Colonel Hitchens. “Plan ahead for a sober ride home—because impaired drivers will be arrested.”
AAA projects 109.5 million Americans will travel by car for year-end trips this holiday season, a 2% increase over last year, with 89% of travelers choosing to drive.
The Habersham County Sheriff’s Office responded with Habersham County Emergency Services units Monday, December 15, 2025, to a wreck that resulted in a fatality outside Demorest.
The single-vehicle wreck was reported at 10:44 a.m. in the area of Twin Peaks Drive and Habersham Mills Road.
The Habersham County Coroner’s Office has released the identity of the man who died in a traffic accident last week. Kenneth “Vamp” Burton, 72, of Clarkesville, was killed in the crash.
The incident occurred Dec. 15 on Twin Peaks Drive near Habersham Mills Road outside Demorest. Emergency responders were called to the scene shortly before 11 a.m. after reports that a vehicle had left the roadway and struck a tree.
Local law enforcement agencies and the Georgia State Patrol responded to the crash. Authorities said Burton was pronounced dead at the scene.
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One person suffered serious injuries in a wreck Thursday, December 18, 2025, on Camp Creek Road near Wilson Road outside Cornelia.
The two-vehicle wreck in front of the City of Cornelia water treatment plant was reported at 3:52 p.m.
The wreck resulted in the closure of Camp Creek Road until just after 5:30 p.m.
Habersham News has contacted the Georgia State Patrol for more details and will follow up on this story once more information is available.
HABERSHAM COUNTY, Ga. — Longstanding concerns about the future of the Habersham County landfill have eased after a recent report confirmed the facility now has capacity through May of 2048, significantly extending earlier projections that suggested only about a decade of remaining space.
Habersham County Manager Tim Sims said the extended lifespan is largely the result of improved daily operations at the landfill, particularly more consistent use of compacting equipment. For several years following the retirement of the landfill’s longtime superintendent, trash compaction was not occurring throughout the entire day, which reduced efficiency and caused the landfill to fill more quickly.
Under new landfill director Johnny Victor, county officials have made sure the compactor is running for most of the time the landfill is open. That change has dramatically increased compaction rates, allowing waste to take up less space and extending the usable life of the site.
Staffing improvements have also played a role. The county added two additional workers to ensure equipment can operate consistently throughout the day, addressing earlier staffing shortages that limited compaction operations.
Another major factor in extending the landfill’s lifespan was the county’s decision to stop accepting construction and demolition (C&D) debris. That material had previously been diverted into the municipal solid waste portion of the landfill after a separate C&D area filled up, accelerating the landfill’s overall capacity loss. Ending acceptance of that debris has slowed the rate at which space is consumed.
To address the need for C&D disposal, a private company is developing a construction and demolition transfer station at the former pulp mill site along Alto Mud Creek Road. Once operational, debris will be sorted for recycling at that location and then transported to an off-site landfill, rather than entering the Habersham County landfill.
Sims also addressed questions about a previously permitted waste-reduction operation along the Nancy Town Road and Welcome Home Road area. That facility has since been shut down by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division after failing to operate within the limits of its permit. Cleanup and enforcement at that site are being handled by the state, not the county.
According to the landfill capacity report received in November, the improved practices and operational changes have extended the landfill’s projected lifespan by approximately 19 years, pushing its expected closure date to May 2048.
County officials say continued attention to daily operations, staffing, and waste management policies will be essential to maintaining that timeline.
HABERSHAM COUNTY, Ga. — Residents may notice a heavy law enforcement presence near the Habersham Ninth Grade Academy as deputies carry out official duties in the area.
According to the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office, personnel are serving a writ of possession on a large piece of property near the school. Officials emphasized that the activity is related to a civil process and not a criminal investigation.
The sheriff’s office said the presence is expected while the legal process is completed and asked the public not to be alarmed. No disruption to school operations has been reported.
Habersham News will share updates if additional information becomes available.
The Habersham County Chamber of Commerce has announced Candice Holcomb as its new president, following a comprehensive search process conducted by the Chamber’s Board of Directors.
According to Chamber leadership, an interview panel made up of business and community leaders from across Habersham County, along with current board members, conducted interviews over a three-week period. The board ultimately reached a unanimous decision to select Holcomb for the role.
Habersham County Chamber of Commerce President Candice Holcomb
Holcomb brings more than two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, community engagement, and strategic relationship-building. Most recently, she served as President and CEO of Georgia Foothills United Way, where she led a multi-county organization serving Habersham, Stephens, and Rabun counties. In that position, she worked closely with business leaders, educators, nonprofit partners, volunteers, and donors to strengthen collaboration and drive long-term community impact.
Throughout her career, Holcomb has developed a reputation for fostering strong and authentic relationships, a skill Chamber leaders say aligns closely with the organization’s mission. Her work at United Way focused on connecting people and resources, building partnerships rooted in trust, communication, and shared goals.
Holcomb said those same values will guide her work at the Chamber as she steps into the new role.
With more than 20 years of experience spanning leadership, marketing, and community engagement, Holcomb is well known throughout Habersham County for her collaborative approach and commitment to the region. She has worked alongside local businesses, civic organizations, and community leaders to support economic growth, encourage innovation, and strengthen the local business environment.
As president of the Habersham County Chamber of Commerce, Holcomb will focus on advocating for local businesses, enhancing member engagement, supporting economic development initiatives, and continuing to build strong relationships that contribute to a thriving business community.
Her connection to Habersham County is both personal and longstanding. Holcomb has lived in the county for more than 20 years, and her husband, Justin, is a lifelong resident. Together, they have raised their family in Habersham County and remain deeply invested in the community.
Chamber Board Chairman Tommy Thurmond thanked stakeholders for their continued support of the organization and expressed confidence in Holcomb’s leadership as she begins her tenure.
CLARKESVILLE, Ga. — The deadline to pay Habersham County property taxes is quickly approaching, and county officials are reminding residents that payments must be made by midnight Friday, Dec. 19, to avoid penalties and interest.
As the deadline nears, the Habersham County Tax Commissioner’s Office traditionally sees a sharp increase in foot traffic, particularly on the final day. Residents who wait until the last minute should expect longer lines and delays, especially during peak hours.
County officials estimate that by the time the deadline arrives, roughly 83 to 85 percent of property owners will have already paid their tax bills. Those who have not are encouraged to act sooner rather than later to avoid the rush.
The Tax Commissioner’s Office is located at 130 Jacobs Way, Suite 202, in Clarkesville. Taxpayers can help speed up the process by bringing their bill and having payment ready upon arrival. Those with checks prepared and bills in hand may also take advantage of the office’s drive-thru service, which can significantly reduce wait times.
Residents who miss the Dec. 19 deadline will begin accruing interest immediately. Additional penalties follow in the coming months, including late notices, attorney involvement, and substantial added fees if the balance remains unpaid.
Officials also note that the deadline to apply for a homestead exemption for the current tax year has already passed. However, residents may still apply for a homestead exemption for next year by visiting the Board of Assessors’ Office while at the courthouse.
With the holiday season underway, county staff are asking for patience and preparedness as they work through one of the busiest weeks of the year. Property owners are urged to take care of their tax obligations early to avoid stress, extra costs, and last-minute delays.
Property taxes must be paid in full by midnight Dec. 19 to avoid penalties.
HABERSHAM COUNTY, Ga. — High-achieving students from Habersham County with an interest in science, engineering, technology, or research are being encouraged to explore internship opportunities through Georgia Tech’s Research Institute (GTRI), one of the nation’s leading applied research organizations.
GTRI’s Georgia Tech Research Institute Professional Internship Program (GRIP) offers paid summer internships for undergraduate and graduate students, giving participants hands-on experience working alongside professional researchers on real-world projects. While the program is designed for college-level students, local educators say high school juniors and seniors can benefit now by learning about the program early and preparing to apply once eligible.
The GRIP summer internship runs 10 weeks, from May 26 through July 31, with students working full-time on research projects across a wide range of disciplines, including engineering, cybersecurity, robotics, aerospace, and applied sciences.
Unlike traditional internships, GRIP allows applicants to review and rank available research projects. Students are invited to select their top three projects during the application process. After the application period closes on January 5, project mentors conduct phone interviews. An algorithm is then used to match students with mentors based on mutual preferences.
Formal job offers are expected to be made in early March, with final hiring decisions completed by the beginning of April.
Local counselors and educators encourage Habersham County students interested in STEM careers to view GRIP as a long-term goal. Students can strengthen future applications by focusing on strong academics, participating in STEM clubs or competitions, enrolling in advanced or dual-enrollment coursework, and gaining early exposure to research or technical projects.
Programs like GRIP provide a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of education, innovation, and real-world problem solving — and students from rural communities like Habersham County are increasingly competitive in these national programs.
To apply to the GRIP program, click the link below:
The Indians ran their win streak up to three in a row with a 62-51 home win on Tuesday against out-of-state opponents, Walhalla.
TFS (7-4), ranked #2 in GIAA, held a 30-21 advantage at the half before replicating those results in the second half.
Eight different players scored for Tallulah Falls, led by Brian Neely’s 15. Todor Stanimirovic and Louis Lenain were in double figures with 11 and 10 points, respectively.
#4 Neyo Bain/Photo Brian Carter
Matus Zlacha added eight, Neyo Bain had seven, and Moises Barragan added six. Cassidy Perkins chipped in with three and Judah McIntosh had two.
The Lady Indians nearly pulled out a massive upset of #2-ranked Walhalla (SC) on Tuesday night at home, with the visitors winning a 62-60 thriller.
TFS (3-6) was able to hang in the entire game, trailing just 22-18 after the first. In that quarter, LB Kafsky netted seven points while Klara Dvorakova had a 3-pointer as part of five points.
The teams continued to battle in the second, as Tallulah Falls pulled within 38-36 at the break. The girls got a few shots from downtown, as Ines Gil, Kafsky, and Nora Mitchell all connected on deep shots.
The third quarter saw a surge from the Lady Razorbacks, who outscored TFS 17-9 to take a 10-point lead into the final period.
Lia Sanjur Santos added a pair of 3-pointers as Tallulah Falls stormed back, but came up just short in a 2-point loss.
The Lady Indians were paced by Dvorakova’s 17 points, while Kafsky had 14 and Santos 10. Gil had seven, and Marta Beltran and Mitchell had five each, with Linda White adding two.
Remember when a local Clarkesville student marched down Colorado Boulevard on New Year’s Day, performing for millions across the country?
In 1970, Pamela Tartaglia of Clarkesville earned national recognition as a piccolo player selected for the McDonald’s All-American High School Band, one of the most prestigious honors a young musician could receive at the time. Tartaglia was chosen alongside about 100 of the top high school musicians nationwide to perform in the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California.
Habersham News “On this day” feature for December 17th.
The All-American Band, directed by famed bandleader Paul Lavalle, held a rare distinction — it was the only band ever invited to appear in both the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Rose Parade. The Rose Parade performance was broadcast live on NBC, giving Tartaglia and her fellow musicians a moment on a truly national stage.
Adding to the memory, Tartaglia was interviewed during parade events by actress Betty White, who served as a parade hostess that year alongside Rose Queen Kathleen Arnett. The band also appeared as a featured highlight on NBC’s “Band Time,” the network’s pre-parade coverage.
For Habersham, it’s a moment worth remembering — a reminder that local talent can travel far beyond Habersham County, even all the way to one of America’s most iconic New Year’s traditions.
Mt. Airy, Ga. — Heavy smoke in the Hazel Grove area prompted an emergency response at Hazel Grove Elementary School earlier today, according to the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities said that while smoke was visible in the area, there was no fire at the school, and students and staff were safe. The response was made out of an abundance of caution after reports of the smoke.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that the situation did not pose a direct threat to the school and asked residents to remain aware of conditions in the area.
Habersham News will continue to monitor the situation and share updates if additional information becomes available.
BALDWIN, Ga. — The City of Baldwin is marking a milestone today as it celebrates its 129th anniversary, honoring more than a century of history rooted in railroads, agriculture, and small-town community life.
Baldwin Train Depot/Photo Habersham History Archives
Founded on December 17, 1896, Baldwin was named in honor of Joseph Baldwin, a railroad official whose influence was instrumental in the town’s early development. Like many North Georgia communities, Baldwin’s beginnings are closely tied to the expansion of the railroad, which helped transform the area into a hub for commerce and travel in the late 19th century.
Southeastern Christian Orphans Home in Baldwin Georgia Circa 1910/Photo Habersham History Archives
Situated along the line between Atlanta and the Northeast Georgia mountains, Baldwin quickly grew as a service center for surrounding farms and businesses. The railroad not only brought economic opportunity but also shaped the town’s identity, connecting Baldwin to larger markets while preserving its local character.
Over the decades, Baldwin evolves alongside Habersham County, weathering economic changes while maintaining strong ties to its past. Agriculture, manufacturing, and small businesses play key roles in the city’s growth, and Baldwin continues to serve as a welcoming gateway between Habersham and Banks counties.
The Peach Blossom was the predecessor to Bobby Joe Caudell’s Steak House/Photo Habersham History Archives
Former Baldwin Mayor Alice Venter said the city’s enduring appeal comes from its authenticity and sense of community. She described Baldwin as a place that has never tried to be something it’s not, even through periods of adversity and criticism. “Baldwin has stood by its principles,” Venter said, noting that the city’s residents care deeply about doing things the right way. She added that while some historic structures are no longer standing, Baldwin has created lasting meaning through shared spaces and community events where people connect and build memories. According to Venter, those experiences — formed in the heart of the city — define Baldwin just as powerfully as any building and continue to live on through the stories residents share.
Today, Baldwin remains a close-knit community proud of its heritage and optimistic about its future. Recent years have seen renewed civic engagement, community events, and investments aimed at strengthening quality of life for residents.
As Baldwin celebrates 129 years since its founding, the anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect on the people, perseverance, and progress that have shaped the city — from its railroad roots to the vibrant community it remains today.
TOCCOA, Ga. — Authorities confirmed Tuesday that a Toccoa man reported missing earlier this month was found deceased after personal items believed to belong to him were discovered in a wooded area off Oak Valley Road.
According to the Stephens County Coroner’s Office, workers near 2486 Oak Valley Road came across the items shortly before 9:40 a.m. Tuesday and contacted emergency services. Deputies with the Stephens County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and began searching the surrounding area.
During that search, deputies located the body of Bobby Joe Ivester, 74, a short distance from where the items were found. Ivester was pronounced dead at the scene.
Chief Deputy Coroner Lee Woody said Ivester had been missing since mid-December. Further details regarding the circumstances of his death will be released by the Stephens County Sheriff’s Office as they become available.
Coroner Kyle Johnson and members of the Coroner’s Office expressed their condolences to Ivester’s family and friends.
This is a developing story, and Habersham News will provide updates as more information is released.
The Cornelia Police Department’s first annual toy drive came to a close this week, marked by an overwhelming show of generosity from the community it serves.
Thanks to donations and local partnerships, the department will provide Christmas assistance — including food and gifts — to 11 families in need this holiday season. What began as a simple idea quickly turned into a meaningful effort powered by residents, businesses, and community leaders working together.
Police officials expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed, noting that the success of the toy drive reflects the strong spirit of compassion found throughout Cornelia. Local businesses, civic organizations, and individuals stepped forward to help ensure families could experience the joy of Christmas.
Among those recognized for their support were Cornelia residents, local restaurants, retail partners, community programs, elected officials, and members of the Cornelia Police Department itself — all united by a shared goal of giving back.
As the department looks ahead, officers say the success of this inaugural effort has laid the foundation for what they hope will become a lasting holiday tradition.
The Cornelia Police Department thanked the community for its generosity and support, emphasizing that this first toy drive would not have been possible without the kindness of so many willing to help their neighbors.
DEMOREST, Ga. — The City of Demorest has lifted the boil water advisory that had been in effect for some water customers following a recent water main break on the south end of Habersham County.
Customers in the affected areas may now resume using tap water for drinking, cooking, and other household needs without boiling.
The advisory was issued as a precaution while crews repaired the damaged water line and ensured the system met state safety standards.
Habersham News will continue to monitor any additional updates from the Demorest Water Department and share them with readers as they become available.
Residents with questions or concerns about their water service are encouraged to contact the City of Demorest directly.
ALTO, Ga. — The Town of Alto is celebrating a milestone this year, marking 130 years since its incorporation and honoring a history shaped by railroads, geography, and generations of community pride.
Founded on December 16, 1895, Alto developed during a period of rapid growth in Northeast Georgia as rail lines expanded through Habersham County. Like many towns of its era, Alto’s early identity evolved alongside transportation and commerce, serving as a small but important stop along the Southern Railway.
Before becoming known as Alto, the community carried two earlier names: Lulah City and Long View. Each reflected different chapters in the town’s early development before residents ultimately settled on a name that highlighted one of Alto’s most distinctive features—its elevation.
Alto post office in the early 1900s/Photo Habersham History Archives
The name “Alto” is derived from the Italian word meaning “tall,” a nod to the town’s higher altitude compared to surrounding areas. That elevated setting has long defined Alto’s landscape and character, offering scenic views and a quieter, small-town atmosphere that residents continue to value today.
Over the decades, Alto has remained a close-knit community while adapting to change around it. Agriculture, rail commerce, and later residential growth all played roles in shaping the town, which today balances its historic roots with modern needs.
Tom Martin’s General Store in Alto, Georgia/Photo R. A. Romanes
As Alto celebrates its 130th anniversary, the occasion serves as a reminder of the generations who helped build the town—from early settlers and railroad workers to civic leaders and families who continue to call Alto home.
While small in size, Alto’s history reflects a broader story shared by many North Georgia towns: one of resilience, adaptation, and pride in place. After 130 years, that legacy remains firmly intact.
Think you have what it takes to predict the 2025 College Football Playoff? Habersham News is inviting readers to test their football knowledge and compete for bragging rights — and a prize — in our CFP Pick ’Em Contest.
Participants will submit picks for each round of the College Football Playoff, starting with the first-round matchups and continuing all the way through the National Championship Game. The contestant who correctly predicts the most game outcomes will be crowned the winner.
🕒 Deadline to Enter
Entries must be submitted by Friday, December 19, 2025, at 7:59 p.m. EST. Entries received after the deadline will not be eligible.
Prize
🏆 Winner takes all — $25 Cash Prize must be picked up in person at the Habersham News office in Cornelia.
Select a winner for each College Football Playoff game
Submit your picks before the deadline
To be eligible to play, contestants must follow Habersham News on Facebook. If you’re not already a follower, simply visit our Facebook page and click the “Follow” button before submitting your entry.
Tiebreaker Rules
In the event of a tie, Habersham News will use each contestant’s prediction of the total combined points scored in the National Championship Game. The closest guess wins. If multiple contestants submit the same total, a random-number generator will be used to determine the winner.
Eligibility & Official Rules
Must be 18 years or older to participate
Must follow Habersham News on Facebook to be eligible to win
Prize must be picked up in person at the Habersham News office in Cornelia, Georgia
Prize will not be mailed
Winner must use their real name when registering
Prize cannot be picked up by anyone other than the winner
Winner’s photo may be used in a Habersham News post announcing the results
Employees of Habersham News and its affiliates are not eligible to participate
Failure to comply with these rules will result in disqualification.
Whether you’re a college football expert or just in it for fun, this contest is your chance to see how well your predictions stack up.
Good luck — and may your bracket survive the madness! 🏈
CLARKESVILLE, Ga. — The scheduled execution of a Georgia death row inmate has been delayed, a development that will likely postpone a planned silent vigil in downtown Clarkesville.
Stacey Humphreys, 52, had been scheduled for execution on Dec. 17 for the 2003 murders of two women in Cobb County. On Monday, the Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles announced that the execution has been suspended, effectively halting the process for now.
Humphreys was convicted of fatally shooting 33-year-old Cyndi Williams and 21-year-old Lori Brown at a Cobb County real estate office. His execution date was set earlier this month following a ruling by a federal judge allowing the sentence to move forward.
The Board of Pardons and Paroles had planned to hold a clemency hearing on Dec. 16, one day before the execution. That hearing has now been postponed “until further notice,” according to the board. At such a hearing, board members would consider testimony for or against clemency and could choose to commute the death sentence, issue a stay, or deny relief altogether.
In Georgia, the Board of Pardons and Paroles is the only authority with the power to grant executive clemency to a condemned inmate.
The delay also affects a silent vigil that had been planned for Dec. 17 at the gazebo on the Clarkesville Square. Organizers have said the vigil was intended to coincide with the final hours before the execution. With the execution now suspended, the timing of the vigil is expected to change, though organizers have not yet announced a new date.
Habersham News will continue to follow developments in the case and provide updates regarding both the status of the execution and any rescheduled vigil in Clarkesville.
The Habersham County Sheriff’s Office has announced its full participation in the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” traffic enforcement mobilization, a coordinated effort aimed at reducing impaired driving and saving lives on local roadways.
The enforcement campaign is already underway and will continue through January 1, 2026, covering the busy winter holiday travel season.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, HCSO H.E.A.T. Units, patrol deputies, and the Georgia State Patrol will work in partnership with the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety to increase the presence of law enforcement on Habersham County roads. Drivers can expect concentrated traffic enforcement patrols, safety checks, and strict enforcement of Georgia traffic laws during the campaign.
Officials say the goal of the mobilization is to reduce crashes and fatalities caused by impaired driving. Statewide data shows that more than 40 percent of traffic-related deaths involve an impaired driver, a statistic the Sheriff’s Office says underscores the importance of the campaign.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that impaired driving is 100 percent preventable, and urged drivers to make responsible choices, especially during holiday celebrations. Drivers are encouraged to designate a sober driver and avoid driving while impaired, buzzed, or under the influence of drugs.
In addition to targeting impaired driving, deputies are asking motorists to remain patient and courteous during the holidays, obey posted speed limits, wear seatbelts, and avoid distracted driving.
The Habersham County Sheriff’s Office thanked residents and visitors for their cooperation and support, wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and safe holiday travels as the enforcement effort continues through the New Year.
